P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Aston Martin has been handed a double €25,000 fine, some of which has been suspended, for Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll missing a Fan Zone appearance at Formula 1’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Aston Martin has received a double €25,000 fine, part of which has been suspended, due to Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll missing a Fan Zone appearance at Formula 1’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The two drivers, along with a team representative, were required to explain to the stewards why they did not attend a mandatory fan engagement activity on Friday.
Despite Aston Martin’s explanation that the drivers were not expected to attend because they did not participate in the opening free practice, the stewards did not accept this reasoning.
The FIA emphasized the importance of fan engagement in Formula 1, and the stewards decided to impose a “significant fine” after fans had waited for hours for the drivers.
Each driver received a €25,000 fine, with €15,000 suspended on the condition that Aston Martin does not repeat the offense within the next 12 months.
A proposal was accepted for the team to make amends by attending the fan zone, distributing team caps, giving garage tours to selected fans, and providing a photo opportunity with both drivers.
The FIA stated that the fine proceeds would be used at their discretion to encourage fan participation in motorsport in the region, either as officials or through grassroots competition.
